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Kennedy C, Ignatowicz A, Odland ML, Abdul-Latif AM, Belli A, Howard A, Whitaker J, Chu KM, Ferreira K, Owolabi EO, Nyamathe S, Tabiri S, Ofori B, Pognaa Kunfah SM, Yakubu M, Bekele A, Alyande B, Nzasabimana P, Byiringiro JC, Davies J. Commonalities and differences in injured patient experiences of accessing and receiving quality injury care: a qualitative study in three sub-Saharan African countries. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e082098. [PMID: 38955369 PMCID: PMC11218010 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-082098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To understand commonalities and differences in injured patient experiences of accessing and receiving quality injury care across three lower-income and middle-income countries. DESIGN A qualitative interview study. The interviews were audiorecorded, transcribed and thematically analysed. SETTING Urban and rural settings in Ghana, South Africa and Rwanda. PARTICIPANTS 59 patients with musculoskeletal injuries. RESULTS We found five common barriers and six common facilitators to injured patient experiences of accessing and receiving high-quality injury care. The barriers encompassed issues such as service and treatment availability, transportation challenges, apathetic care, individual financial scarcity and inadequate health insurance coverage, alongside low health literacy and information provision. Facilitators included effective information giving and informed consent practices, access to health insurance, improved health literacy, empathetic and responsive care, comprehensive multidisciplinary management and discharge planning, as well as both informal and formal transportation options including ambulance services. These barriers and facilitators were prevalent and shared across at least two countries but demonstrated intercountry and intracountry (between urbanity and rurality) variation in thematic frequency. CONCLUSION There are universal factors influencing patient experiences of accessing and receiving care, independent of the context or healthcare system. It is important to recognise and understand these barriers and facilitators to inform policy decisions and develop transferable interventions aimed at enhancing the quality of injury care in sub-Saharan African nations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciaran Kennedy
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Maria Lisa Odland
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, St. Olavs University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Research Institute, Blantyre, Malawi
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, NTNU, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Abdul-Malik Abdul-Latif
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Volta Regional Health Directorate, Ghana Health Service, Accra, Greater Accra, Ghana
| | - Antonio Belli
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, Birmingham, UK
| | - Anthony Howard
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Centre, University of Oxford, Headington, UK
| | - John Whitaker
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- King's Centre for Global Health and Health Partnerships, King's College London Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, London, UK
| | - Kathryn M Chu
- Department of Global Health, Centre for Global Surgery, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Surgery, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Karen Ferreira
- Department of Global Health, Centre for Global Surgery, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Eyitayo O Owolabi
- Department of Global Health, Centre for Global Surgery, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Samukelisiwe Nyamathe
- Department of Global Health, Centre for Global Surgery, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Stephen Tabiri
- Ghana HUB of NIHR Global Surgery, Tamale, Ghana
- Department of Public Health, Tamale Teaching Hospital, Tamale, Ghana
- Department of Surgery, Tamale Teaching Hospital, Tamale, Ghana
| | | | | | - Mustapha Yakubu
- Department of Public Health, Tamale Teaching Hospital, Tamale, Ghana
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana
| | - Abebe Bekele
- University of Global Health Equity, Kigali, Rwanda
- Department of Surgery, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Barnabas Alyande
- Center for Equity in Global Surgery, University of Global Health Equity, Kigali, Rwanda
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Jean-Claude Byiringiro
- University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
- Department of Surgery, University Teaching Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Justine Davies
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Global Health, Centre for Global Surgery, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Medical Research Council/Wits University Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Mapping the processes and information flows of a prehospital emergency care system in Rwanda: a process mapping exercise. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e085064. [PMID: 38925682 PMCID: PMC11202735 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-085064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A vital component of a prehospital emergency care system is getting an injured patient to the right hospital at the right time. Process and information flow mapping are recognised methods to show where efficiencies can be made. We aimed to understand the process and information flows used by the prehospital emergency service in transporting community emergencies in Rwanda in order to identify areas for improvement. DESIGN Two facilitated process/information mapping workshops were conducted. Process maps were produced in real time during discussions and shared with participants for their agreement. They were further validated by field observations. SETTING The study took place in two prehospital care settings serving predominantly rural and predominantly urban patients. PARTICIPANTS 24 healthcare professionals from various cadres. Field observations were done on 49 emergencies across both sites. RESULTS Two maps were produced, and four main process stages were described: (1) call triage by the dispatch/call centre team, (2) scene triage by the ambulance team, (3) patient monitoring by the ambulance team on the way to the health facility and (4) handover process at the health facility. The first key finding was that the rural site had multiple points of entry into the system for emergency patients, whereas the urban system had one point of entry (the national emergency number); processes were otherwise similar between sites. The second was that although large amounts of information were collected to inform decision-making about which health facility to transfer patients to, participants found it challenging to articulate the intellectual process by which they used this to make decisions; guidelines were not used for decision-making. DISCUSSION We have identified several areas of the prehospital care processes where there can be efficiencies. To make efficiencies in the decision-making process and produce a standard approach for all patients will require protocolising care pathways.
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Bath MF, Kohler K, Hobbs L, Smith BG, Clark DJ, Kwizera A, Perkins Z, Marsden M, Davenport R, Davies J, Amoako J, Moonesinghe R, Weiser T, Leather AJM, Hardcastle T, Naidoo R, Nördin Y, Conway Morris A, Lakhoo K, Hutchinson PJ, Bashford T. Evaluating patient factors, operative management and postoperative outcomes in trauma laparotomy patients worldwide: a protocol for a global observational multicentre trauma study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e083135. [PMID: 38580358 PMCID: PMC11002395 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-083135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Trauma contributes to the greatest loss of disability-adjusted life-years for adolescents and young adults worldwide. In the context of global abdominal trauma, the trauma laparotomy is the most commonly performed operation. Variation likely exists in how these patients are managed and their subsequent outcomes, yet very little global data on the topic currently exists. The objective of the GOAL-Trauma study is to evaluate both patient and injury factors for those undergoing trauma laparotomy, their clinical management and postoperative outcomes. METHODS We describe a planned prospective multicentre observational cohort study of patients undergoing trauma laparotomy. We will include patients of all ages who present to hospital with a blunt or penetrating injury and undergo a trauma laparotomy within 5 days of presentation to the treating centre. The study will collect system, patient, process and outcome data, following patients up until 30 days postoperatively (or until discharge or death, whichever is first). Our sample size calculation suggests we will need to recruit 552 patients from approximately 150 recruiting centres. DISCUSSION The GOAL-Trauma study will provide a global snapshot of the current management and outcomes for patients undergoing a trauma laparotomy. It will also provide insight into the variation seen in the time delays for receiving care, the disease and patient factors present, and patient outcomes. For current standards of trauma care to be improved worldwide, a greater understanding of the current state of trauma laparotomy care is paramount if appropriate interventions and targets are to be identified and implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael F Bath
- International Health Systems Group, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Katharina Kohler
- International Health Systems Group, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Anaesthesia, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Laura Hobbs
- International Health Systems Group, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Anaesthesia, East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust, Stevenage, UK
| | - Brandon George Smith
- International Health Systems Group, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - David J Clark
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Arthur Kwizera
- Department of Anesthesia, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Zane Perkins
- Centre for Trauma Sciences, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Major Trauma Service, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Max Marsden
- Centre for Trauma Sciences, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Academic Department of Military Surgery and Trauma, Research and Clinical Innovation, Defence Medical Services, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ross Davenport
- Centre for Trauma Sciences, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Major Trauma Service, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Justin Davies
- Cambridge Colorectal Unit, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Surgery, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Joachim Amoako
- Department of Surgery, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana
- University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
| | - Ramani Moonesinghe
- National Clinical Director for Critical and Perioperative Care, NHS England, London, UK
| | - Thomas Weiser
- Department of Surgery, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Andy J M Leather
- School of Life Course and Population Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Timothy Hardcastle
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Mandela School of Medicine (NRMSM), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Trauma and Burns Unit, Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health, Durban, South Africa
| | - Ravi Naidoo
- Department of Surgery, Ngwelezana Hospital, Empangeni, South Africa
| | - Yannick Nördin
- Emergency Medical Care System (SAMU), Jalisco State, Mexico
| | - Andrew Conway Morris
- Division of Anaesthesia, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Kokila Lakhoo
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Peter John Hutchinson
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- NIHR Global Health Research Group on Acquired Brain and Spine Injury, Cambridge, UK
| | - Tom Bashford
- International Health Systems Group, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Anaesthesia, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
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Davies J, Chu K, Tabiri S, Byiringiro JC, Bekele A, Razzak J, D’Ambruoso L, Ignatowicz A, Bojke L, Nkonki L, Laurenzi C, Sitch A, Bagahirwa I, Belli A, Sam NB, Amberbir A, Whitaker J, Ndangurura D, Ghalichi L, MacQuene T, Tshabalala N, Fikadu Berhe D, Nepomuscene NJ, Agbeko AE, Sarfo-Antwi F, Babar Chand Z, Wajidali Z, Sahibjan F, Atiq H, Mali Y, Tshabalala Z, Khalfe F, Nodo O, Umwali G, Twizeyimana E, Mugisha N, Munyura NO, Nakure S, Ishimwe SMC, Nzasabimana P, Dramani A, Acquaye J, Tanweer A. Equitable access to quality injury care; Equi-Injury project protocol for prioritizing interventions in four low- or middle-income countries: a mixed method study. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:429. [PMID: 38576004 PMCID: PMC10996087 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10668-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Equitable access to quality care after injury is an essential step for improved health outcomes in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We introduce the Equi-Injury project, in which we will use integrated frameworks to understand how to improve equitable access to quality care after injury in four LMICs: Ghana, Pakistan, Rwanda and South Africa. METHODS This project has 5 work packages (WPs) as well as essential cross-cutting pillars of community engagement, capacity building and cross-country learning. In WP1, we will identify needs, barriers, and facilitators to impactful stakeholder engagement in developing and prioritising policy solutions. In WP2, we will collect data on patient care and outcomes after injuries. In WP3, we will develop an injury pathway model to understand which elements in the pathway of injury response, care and treatment have the biggest impact on health and economic outcomes. In WP4, we will work with stakeholders to gain consensus on solutions to address identified issues; these solutions will be implemented and tested in future research. In WP5, in order to ascertain where learning is transferable across contexts, we will identify which outcomes are shared across countries. The study has received approval from ethical review boards (ERBs) of all partner countries in South Africa, Rwanda, Ghana, Pakistan and the University of Birmingham. DISCUSSION This health system evaluation project aims to provide a deeper understanding of injury care and develop evidence-based interventions within and across partner countries in four diverse LMICs. Strong partnership with multiple stakeholders will facilitate utilisation of the results for the co-development of sustainable interventions.
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Ghalichi L, Goodman-Palmer D, Whitaker J, Abio A, Wilson ML, Wallis L, Norov B, Aryal KK, Malta DC, Bärnighausen T, Geldsetzer P, Flood D, Vollmer S, Theilmann M, Davies J. Individual characteristics associated with road traffic collisions and healthcare seeking in low- and middle-income countries and territories. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0002768. [PMID: 38241424 PMCID: PMC10798533 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Incidence of road traffic collisions (RTCs), types of users involved, and healthcare requirement afterwards are essential information for efficient policy making. We analysed individual-level data from nationally representative surveys conducted in low- or middle-income countries (LMICs) between 2008-2019. We describe the weighted incidence of non-fatal RTC in the past 12 months, type of road user involved, and incidence of traffic injuries requiring medical attention. Multivariable logistic regressions were done to evaluate associated sociodemographic and economic characteristics, and alcohol use. Data were included from 90,790 individuals from 15 countries or territories. The non-fatal RTC incidence in participants aged 24-65 years was 5.2% (95% CI: 4.6-5.9), with significant differences dependent on country income status. Drivers, passengers, pedestrians and cyclists composed 37.2%, 40.3%, 11.3% and 11.2% of RTCs, respectively. The distribution of road user type varied with country income status, with divers increasing and cyclists decreasing with increasing country income status. Type of road users involved in RTCs also varied by the age and sex of the person involved, with a greater proportion of males than females involved as drivers, and a reverse pattern for pedestrians. In multivariable analysis, RTC incidence was associated with younger age, male sex, being single, and having achieved higher levels of education; there was no association with alcohol use. In a sensitivity analysis including respondents aged 18-64 years, results were similar, however, there was an association of RTC incidence with alcohol use. The incidence of injuries requiring medical attention was 1.8% (1.6-2.1). In multivariable analyses, requiring medical attention was associated with younger age, male sex, and higher wealth quintile. We found remarkable heterogeneity in RTC incidence, the type of road users involved, and the requirement for medical attention after injuries depending on country income status and socio-demographic characteristics. Targeted data-informed approaches are needed to prevent and manage RTCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Ghalichi
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Dina Goodman-Palmer
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - John Whitaker
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- King’s Centre for Global Health and Health Partnerships, School of Life Course and Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Academic Department of Military Surgery and Trauma, Royal Centre for Defence Medicine, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Anne Abio
- Injury Epidemiology and Prevention Research Group, Turku Brain Injury Centre, Division of Clinical Neurosciences, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Research Centre for Child Psychiatry, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- INVEST Research Flagship Center, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Michael Lowery Wilson
- Injury Epidemiology and Prevention Research Group, Turku Brain Injury Centre, Division of Clinical Neurosciences, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Lee Wallis
- Clinical Services and Systems, Integrated Health Services, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Bolormaa Norov
- Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, National Center for Public Health, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Krishna Kumar Aryal
- Bergen Centre for Ethics and Priority Setting, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Deborah Carvalho Malta
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Departamento de Enfermagem Materno Infantil e Saúde Pública, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
| | - Till Bärnighausen
- Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University and University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Pascal Geldsetzer
- Division of Primary Care and Population Health, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub–San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - David Flood
- Department of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Sebastian Vollmer
- Department of Economics and Centre for Modern Indian Studies, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Michaela Theilmann
- Professorship of Behavioral Science for Disease Prevention and Health Care, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Justine Davies
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Centre for Global Surgery, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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Allen Ingabire JC, Stewart A, Sagahutu JB, Urimubenshi G, Bucyibaruta G, Pilusa S, Uwakunda C, Mugisha D, Ingabire L, Tumusiime D. Prevalence and levels of disability post road traffic orthopaedic injuries in Rwanda. Afr J Disabil 2024; 13:1251. [PMID: 38322752 PMCID: PMC10844983 DOI: 10.4102/ajod.v13i0.1251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Prolonged disability resulting from road traffic injuries (RTIs) contributes significantly to morbidity and disease burden. A good understanding of the prevalence and the level of disability of orthopaedic injuries in developing countries is crucial for improvement; however, such data are currently lacking in Rwanda. Objectives To determine the prevalence and levels of disability of 2 years post-road traffic orthopaedic injuries in Rwanda. Method A multicentre, cross-sectional study from five Rwandan referral hospitals of 368 adult RTI victims' sustained from accidents in 2019. Between 02 June 2022, and 31 August 2022, two years after the injury, participants completed the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS 2.0) Questionnaire for the degree of impairment and the Upper Extremity Functional Scale and Lower-Extremity Functional Scale forms for limb functional evaluation. Descriptive, inferential statistics Chi-square and multinomial regression models were analysed using R Studio. Results The study's mean age of the RTOI victims was 37.5 (±11.26) years, with a sex ratio M: F:3: 1. The prevalence of disability following road traffic orthopedic injury (RTOI) after 2 years was 36.14%, with victims having WHODAS score > 25.0% and 36.31% were still unable to return to their usual activities. Age group, Severe Kampala Trauma Score and lack of rehabilitation contributed to disability. The most affected WHODAS domains were participation in society (33%) and life activities (28%). Conclusion The prevalence and levels of disability because of RTOI in Rwanda are high, with mobility and participation in life being more affected than other WHODAS domains. Middle-aged and socio-economically underprivileged persons are the most affected. Contribution This study showed that a good rehabilitation approach and economic support for the RTI victims would decrease their disabilities in Rwanda.
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Affiliation(s)
- JC Allen Ingabire
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
- Department of Surgery, University Teaching Hospital of Kigali, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Aimee Stewart
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Jean Baptiste Sagahutu
- Department of Physiotherapy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda,Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Gerard Urimubenshi
- Department of Physiotherapy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda,Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Georges Bucyibaruta
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - Sonti Pilusa
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Carine Uwakunda
- Department of Surgery, Kibagabaga Level II Teaching Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Didace Mugisha
- Department of Environmental, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Leontine Ingabire
- Department of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - David Tumusiime
- Department of Physiotherapy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda,Kigali, Rwanda
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Allen Ingabire JC, Stewart A, Uwakunda C, Mugisha D, Sagahutu JB, Urimubenshi G, Tumusiime DK, Bucyibaruta G. Factors affecting social integration after road traffic orthopaedic injuries in Rwanda. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2024; 4:1287980. [PMID: 38293289 PMCID: PMC10825670 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2023.1287980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Background Road traffic injuries (RTIs) leading to long-term disability present a significant public health challenge, causing immense personal and societal consequences. Every year, 50 million people are hurt, 1.2 million die, 30% are permanently disabled, and 14% cannot return to work due to road traffic accidents. However, in many developing countries, information on the social integration of patients post-RTI remains limited. This study aimed to identify factors contributing to social integration following road traffic-related orthopedic injuries (RTOI) in Rwanda. Methodology A multicenter, cross-sectional study included 369 adult Road traffic orthopedic injuries (RTOI) victims from five Rwandan referral hospitals. Participants completed the IMPACT-S Questionnaire between 2 June 2022, and 31 August 2022, two years after the injury. It measured social integration in terms of activities and paricipation. We used logistic regression statistical analysis with a significance level of p < 0.05 to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The Institutional Review Board for Health Sciences and Medicine at the University of Rwanda College of Medicine ethically authorized this study. Participants signed a written consent form before participating in the study. The data was kept private and was used only for this study. Results The study's findings indicated that the mean age of RTOI victims was 37.5 ± 11.26 years, with a notable male predominance over females. Of the participants, 5.69% were unable to resume normal life activities. The overall mean score on the IMPACT-S scale was moderate, at 77 ± 17. Specifically, participants achieved an average score of 76 ± 16 for "activities" and a higher average of 84 ± 16 for "participation." Certain factors were associated with poor social integration compared to others, including belonging to the age group above 65 years (OR = 8.25, p = 0.02), female sex (OR = 3.26, p = 0.02), lack of rehabilitation (OR = 3.82, p = 0.01), and length of hospital stay >15 days (OR = 4.44, p = 0.02). Conclusion The majority of RTOI victims in Rwanda achieved successful reintegration into society; nevertheless, their mobility and community engagement were more significantly impacted compared to other aspects assessed by the IMPACT-S scale. The study emphasized the importance of early management, effective rehabilitation, and prompt patient discharge from the hospital in facilitating a successful return to everyday life after road traffic-related orthopedic injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- JC Allen Ingabire
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Aimee Stewart
- Physiotherapy Department, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesbourg, South Africa
| | - Carine Uwakunda
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Didace Mugisha
- Department of Environmental, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Jean Baptiste Sagahutu
- Physiotherapy Department, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Gerard Urimubenshi
- Physiotherapy Department, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - David K. Tumusiime
- Physiotherapy Department, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Georges Bucyibaruta
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Whitaker J, Edem I, Togun E, Amoah AS, Dube A, Chirwa L, Munthali B, Brunelli G, Van Boeckel T, Rickard R, Leather AJM, Davies J. Health system assessment for access to care after injury in low- or middle-income countries: A mixed methods study from Northern Malawi. PLoS Med 2024; 21:e1004344. [PMID: 38252654 PMCID: PMC10843098 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1004344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Injuries represent a vast and relatively neglected burden of disease affecting low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). While many health systems underperform in treating injured patients, most assessments have not considered the whole system. We integrated findings from 9 methods using a 3 delays approach (delays in seeking, reaching, or receiving care) to prioritise important trauma care health system barriers in Karonga, Northern Malawi, and exemplify a holistic health system assessment approach applicable in comparable settings. METHODS AND FINDINGS To provide multiple perspectives on each conceptual delay and include data from community-based and facility-based sources, we used 9 methods to examine the injury care health system. The methods were (1) household survey; (2) verbal autopsy analysis; (3) community focus group discussions (FGDs); (4) community photovoice; (5) facility care-pathway process mapping and elucidation of barriers following injury; (6) facility healthcare worker survey; (7) facility assessment survey; (8) clinical vignettes for care process quality assessment of facility-based healthcare workers; and (9) geographic information system (GIS) analysis. Empirical data collection took place in Karonga, Northern Malawi, between July 2019 and February 2020. We used a convergent parallel study design concurrently conducting all data collection before subsequently integrating results for interpretation. For each delay, a matrix was created to juxtapose method-specific data relevant to each barrier identified as driving delays to injury care. Using a consensus approach, we graded the evidence from each method as to whether an identified barrier was important within the health system. We identified 26 barriers to access timely quality injury care evidenced by at least 3 of the 9 study methods. There were 10 barriers at delay 1, 6 at delay 2, and 10 at delay 3. We found that the barriers "cost," "transport," and "physical resources" had the most methods providing strong evidence they were important health system barriers within delays 1 (seeking care), 2 (reaching care), and 3 (receiving care), respectively. Facility process mapping provided evidence for the greatest number of barriers-25 of 26 within the integrated analysis. There were some barriers with notable divergent findings between the community- and facility-based methods, as well as among different community- and facility-based methods, which are discussed. The main limitation of our study is that the framework for grading evidence strength for important health system barriers across the 9 studies was done by author-derived consensus; other researchers might have created a different framework. CONCLUSIONS By integrating 9 different methods, including qualitative, quantitative, community-, patient-, and healthcare worker-derived data sources, we gained a rich insight into the functioning of this health system's ability to provide injury care. This approach allowed more holistic appraisal of this health system's issues by establishing convergence of evidence across the diverse methods used that the barriers of cost, transport, and physical resources were the most important health system barriers driving delays to seeking, reaching, and receiving injury care, respectively. This offers direction and confidence, over and above that derived from single methodology studies, for prioritising barriers to address through health service development and policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Whitaker
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- King’s Centre for Global Health and Health Partnerships, School of Life Course and Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Academic Department of Military Surgery and Trauma, Royal Centre for Defence Medicine, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Idara Edem
- King’s Centre for Global Health and Health Partnerships, School of Life Course and Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Insight Institute of Neurosurgery & Neuroscience, Flint, Michigan, United States of America
- Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Ella Togun
- King’s Centre for Global Health and Health Partnerships, School of Life Course and Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Abena S. Amoah
- Malawi Epidemiology and Intervention Research Unit (formerly Karonga Prevention Study), Chilumba, Malawi
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Albert Dube
- Malawi Epidemiology and Intervention Research Unit (formerly Karonga Prevention Study), Chilumba, Malawi
| | - Lindani Chirwa
- Karonga District Hospital, Karonga District Health Office, Karonga, Malawi
- School of Medicine & Oral Health, Department of Pathology, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS), Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Boston Munthali
- Mzuzu Central Hospital, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Mzuzu, Malawi
- Lilongwe Institute of Orthopaedic and Neurosurgery, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Giulia Brunelli
- Health Geography and Policy Group, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Van Boeckel
- Health Geography and Policy Group, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Disease Dynamics Economics and Policy, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Rory Rickard
- Academic Department of Military Surgery and Trauma, Royal Centre for Defence Medicine, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew JM Leather
- King’s Centre for Global Health and Health Partnerships, School of Life Course and Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Justine Davies
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Medical Research Council/Wits University Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Global Surgery, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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9
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Kruk ME, Kapoor NR, Lewis TP, Arsenault C, Boutsikari EC, Breda J, Carai S, Croke K, Dayalu R, Fink G, Garcia PJ, Kassa M, Mohan S, Moshabela M, Nzinga J, Oh J, Okiro EA, Prabhakaran D, SteelFisher GK, Tarricone R, Garcia-Elorrio E. Population confidence in the health system in 15 countries: results from the first round of the People's Voice Survey. Lancet Glob Health 2024; 12:e100-e111. [PMID: 38096882 PMCID: PMC10716625 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(23)00499-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Population confidence is essential to a well functioning health system. Using data from the People's Voice Survey-a novel population survey conducted in 15 low-income, middle-income, and high-income countries-we report health system confidence among the general population and analyse its associated factors. Across the 15 countries, fewer than half of respondents were health secure and reported being somewhat or very confident that they could get and afford good-quality care if very sick. Only a quarter of respondents endorsed their current health system, deeming it to work well with no need for major reform. The lowest support was in Peru, the UK, and Greece-countries experiencing substantial health system challenges. Wealthy, more educated, young, and female respondents were less likely to endorse the health system in many countries, portending future challenges for maintaining social solidarity for publicly financed health systems. In pooled analyses, the perceived quality of the public health system and government responsiveness to public input were strongly associated with all confidence measures. These results provide a post-COVID-19 pandemic baseline of public confidence in the health system. The survey should be repeated regularly to inform policy and improve health system accountability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret E Kruk
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Neena R Kapoor
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Todd P Lewis
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Catherine Arsenault
- Department of Global Health, George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Eleni C Boutsikari
- Division of Country Health Policies and Systems, WHO Athens Quality of Care Office, WHO Regional Office for Europe, Athens, Greece
| | - João Breda
- Division of Country Health Policies and Systems, WHO Athens Quality of Care Office, WHO Regional Office for Europe, Athens, Greece
| | - Susanne Carai
- Division of Country Health Policies and Systems, WHO Athens Quality of Care Office, WHO Regional Office for Europe, Athens, Greece
| | - Kevin Croke
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rashmi Dayalu
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Günther Fink
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Patricia J Garcia
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Munir Kassa
- Minister's Office, Ministry of Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Mosa Moshabela
- College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Jacinta Nzinga
- Health Economics Research Unit, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Juhwan Oh
- Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Emelda A Okiro
- Population and Health Impact Surveillance Group, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya; Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Gillian K SteelFisher
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rosanna Tarricone
- Department of Social and Political Science, Bocconi University, Milan, Italy
| | - Ezequiel Garcia-Elorrio
- School of Public Health, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru; Health Care Quality and Patient Safety, Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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10
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Nzasabimana P, Ignatowicz A, Alayande BT, Abdul-Latif AM, Odland ML, Davies J, Bekele A, Byiringiro JC. Barriers to equitable access to quality trauma care in Rwanda: a qualitative study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e075117. [PMID: 37770259 PMCID: PMC10546151 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-075117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Using the 'Four Delay' framework, our study aimed to identify and explore barriers to accessing quality injury care from the injured patients', caregivers' and community leaders' perspectives. DESIGN A qualitative study assessing barriers to trauma care comprising 20 in-depth semistructured interviews and 4 focus group discussions was conducted. The data were analysed thematically. SETTING This qualitative study was conducted in Rwanda's rural Burera District, located in the Northern Province, and in Kigali City, the country's urban capital, to capture both the rural and urban population's experiences of being injured. PARTICIPANTS Purposively selected participants were individuals from urban and rural communities who had accessed injury care in the previous 6 months or cared for the injured people, and community leaders. Fifty-one participants, 13 females and 38 males ranging from 21 to 68 years of age participated in interviews and focus group discussions. Thirty-six (71%) were former trauma patients with a wide range of injuries including fractured long bones (9, 45%), other fractures, head injury, polytrauma (3, 15% each), abdominal trauma (1, 5%), and lacerations (1, 5%), while the rest were caregivers and community leaders. RESULTS Multiple barriers were identified cutting across all levels of the 'Four Delays' framework, including barriers to seeking, reaching, receiving and remaining in care. Key barriers mentioned by participants in both interviews and focus group discussions were: lack of community health insurance, limited access to ambulances, insufficient number of trauma care specialists and a high volume of trauma patients. The rigid referral process and lack of decentralised rehabilitation services were also identified as significant barriers to accessing quality care for injured patients. CONCLUSIONS Future interventions to improve access to injury care in Rwanda must be informed by the identified barriers along the spectrum of care, from the point of injury to receipt of care and rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Nzasabimana
- Single Project Implementation Unit, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | - Barnabas Tobi Alayande
- Center for Equity in Global Surgery, University of Global Health Equity, Kigali, Rwanda
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Maria Lisa Odland
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St Olav's Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Research Institute, Blantyre, Malawi
- Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Justine Davies
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Global Health, Centre for Global Surgery, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- Medical Research Council/Wits University Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Abebe Bekele
- Center for Equity in Global Surgery, University of Global Health Equity, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Jean Claude Byiringiro
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Rwanda College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Kigali, Rwanda
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11
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Odland ML, Abdul-Latif AM, Ignatowicz A, Bekele A, Chu K, Howard A, Tabiri S, Byiringiro JC, Davies J. Governance for injury care systems in Ghana, South Africa and Rwanda: development and pilot testing of an assessment tool. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e074088. [PMID: 37666564 PMCID: PMC10481730 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-074088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to evaluate health systems governance for injury care in three sub-Saharan countries from policymakers' and injury care providers' perspectives. SETTING Ghana, Rwanda and South Africa. DESIGN Based on Siddiqi et al's framework for governance, we developed an online assessment tool for health system governance for injury with 37 questions covering health policy and implementation under 10 overarching principles of strategic vision, participation and consensus orientation, rule of law, transparency, responsiveness of institutions, equity, effectiveness or efficiency, accountability, ethics and intelligence and information. A literature review was also done to support the scoring. We derived scores using two methods-investigator scores and respondent scores. PARTICIPANTS The tool was sent out to purposively selected stakeholders, including policymakers and injury care providers in Ghana, Rwanda and South Africa. Data were collected between October 2020 and February 2021. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOMES Investigator-weighted and respondent percentage scores for health system governance for injury care. This was calculated for each country in total and per principle. RESULTS Rwanda had the highest overall investigator-weighted percentage score (70%), followed by South Africa (59%). Ghana had the lowest overall investigator score (48%). The overall results were similar for the respondent scores. Some areas, such as participation and consensus, scored high in all three countries, while other areas, such as transparency, scored very low. CONCLUSION In this multicountry governance survey, we provide insight into and evaluation of health system governance for trauma in three low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in sub-Saharan Africa. It highlights areas of improvement that need to be prioritised, such as transparency, to meet the high burden of trauma and injuries in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Lisa Odland
- University of Birmingham, Institute of Applied Health Research, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St Olavs Hospital Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Trøndelag, Norway
| | | | | | - Abebe Bekele
- University of Global Health Equity, Kigali, Gasabo, Rwanda
| | - Kathryn Chu
- Centre for Global Surgery, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Surgery, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Anthony Howard
- University of Leeds, Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Leeds, UK
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Stephen Tabiri
- Ghana Hub of NIHR Global Surgery, Tamale, Northern, Ghana
- Department of Surgery, Tamale Teaching Hospital, Tamale, Northern, Ghana
| | - Jean Claude Byiringiro
- University of Rwanda College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Kigali, Rwanda
- Department of Surgery, University Teaching Hospital of Kigali, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Justine Davies
- University of Birmingham, Institute of Applied Health Research, Birmingham, UK
- Centre for Global Surgery, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
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12
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Sule AZ, Alayande BT, Ojo EO, Taiwo FO, Riviello RR, Chirdan LB, Ezeome ER, Mshelbwala PM, Ugwu BT, Yawe KDT. The History and Evolution of the West African College of Surgeons/Jos University Teaching Hospital Trauma Management Course. World J Surg 2023; 47:1919-1929. [PMID: 37069318 PMCID: PMC10109223 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-023-07004-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inadequate trauma care training opportunities exist in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. Jos University Teaching Hospital and the West African College of Surgeons (WACS) have synergized, over the past 15 years, to introduce a yearly, certified, multidisciplinary Trauma Management Course. We explore the history and evolution of this course. METHODS A desk review of course secretariat documents, registration records, schedules, pre- and post-course test records, post-course surveys, and account books complemented by organizer interviews was carried out to elaborate the evolution of the Trauma Management Course. RESULTS The course was started as a local Continuing Medical Education program in 2005 in response to recurring cycles of violence and numerous mass casualty situations. Collaborations with WACS followed, with inclusion of the course in the College's yearly calendar from 2010. Multidisciplinary faculty teach participants the concepts of trauma care through didactic lectures, group sessions, and hands-on simulation within a one-week period. From inception, there has been a 100% growth in lecture content (from 15 to 30 lectures) and in multidisciplinary attendance (from 23 to 133 attendees). Trainees showed statistically significant knowledge gain yearly, with a mean difference ranging from 10.1 to 16.1% over the past 5 years. Future collaborations seek to expand the course and position it as a catalyst for regional emergency medical services and trauma registries. CONCLUSIONS Multidisciplinary trauma management training is important for expanding holistic trauma capacity within the West African sub-region. The course serves as an example for Low- and Middle-Income contexts. Similar contextualized programs should be considered to strengthen trauma workforce development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augustine Z Sule
- Department of Surgery, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria
| | - Barnabas T Alayande
- Department of Surgery, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria.
- Center for Equity in Global Surgery, University of Global Health Equity, Kigali Heights, Plot 772, KG 7 Ave., 5Th Floor, PO Box 6955, Kigali, Rwanda.
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Emmanuel O Ojo
- Department of Surgery, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria
| | - Femi O Taiwo
- Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria
| | - Robert R Riviello
- Center for Equity in Global Surgery, University of Global Health Equity, Kigali Heights, Plot 772, KG 7 Ave., 5Th Floor, PO Box 6955, Kigali, Rwanda
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Centre for Surgery and Public Health, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lohfa B Chirdan
- Department of Surgery, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria
| | - Emmanuel R Ezeome
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Philip M Mshelbwala
- Department of Surgery, College of Health Sciences, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Benjamin T Ugwu
- Department of Surgery, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria
| | - King-David T Yawe
- Department of Surgery, College of Health Sciences, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
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13
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Pettke A, Stassen W, Laflamme L, Wallis LA, Hasselberg M. Changes in trauma-related emergency medical services during the COVID-19 lockdown in the Western Cape, South Africa. BMC Emerg Med 2023; 23:72. [PMID: 37370047 DOI: 10.1186/s12873-023-00840-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To limit virus spread during the COVID pandemic, extensive measures were implemented around the world. In South Africa, these restrictions included alcohol and movement restrictions, factors previously linked to injury burden in the country. Consequently, reports from many countries, including South Africa, have shown a reduction in trauma presentations related to these restrictions. However, only few studies and none from Africa focus on the impact of the pandemic restrictions on the Emergency Medical System (EMS). METHODS We present a retrospective, observational longitudinal study including data from all ambulance transports of physical trauma cases collected during the period 2019-01-01 and 2021-02-28 from the Western Cape Government EMS in the Western Cape Province, South Africa (87,167 cases). Within this timeframe, the 35-days strictest lockdown level period was compared to a 35-days period prior to the lockdown and to the same 35-days period in 2019. Injury characteristics (intent, mechanism, and severity) and time were studied in detail. Ambulance transport volumes as well as ambulance response and on-scene time before and during the pandemic were compared. Significance between indicated periods was determined using Chi-square test. RESULTS During the strictest lockdown period, presentations of trauma cases declined by > 50%. Ambulance transport volumes decreased for all injury mechanisms and proportions changed. The share of assaults and traffic injuries decreased by 6% and 8%, respectively, while accidental injuries increased by 5%. The proportion of self-inflicted injuries increased by 5%. Studies of injury time showed an increased share of injuries during day shift and a reduction of total injury volume during the weekend during the lockdown. Median response- and on-scene time remained stable in the time-periods studied. CONCLUSION This is one of the first reports on the influence of COVID-19 related restrictions on EMS, and the first in South Africa. We report a decline in trauma related ambulance transport volumes in the Western Cape Province as well as changes in injury patterns, largely corresponding to previous findings from hospital settings in South Africa. The unchanged response and on-scene times indicate a well-functioning EMS despite pandemic challenges. More studies are needed, especially disaggregating the different restrictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Pettke
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Willem Stassen
- Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lucie Laflamme
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Institute for Social and Health Sciences, University of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Lee Alan Wallis
- Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Marie Hasselberg
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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14
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Asfaw ZK. National Trauma Registries in LMICs: Long-Overdue Priority Comment on "Neurotrauma Surveillance in National Registries of Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Scoping Review and Comparative Analysis of Data Dictionaries". Int J Health Policy Manag 2023; 12:7504. [PMID: 37579401 PMCID: PMC10461876 DOI: 10.34172/ijhpm.2023.7504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The burden of trauma-related mortality is inversely related to income on an individual and national scale. Barthélemy et al highlight the significant variation of neurotrauma data included in national injury registries of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) when compared to the World Health Organization (WHO) minimal dataset for injury (MDI). Moreover, the authors emphasize that the non-existence and underutilization of nationally standardized trauma registries hinder the data-driven identification of factors contributing to neurotrauma and subsequent attempts to improve neurotrauma care. Establishing a nationally standardized trauma registry should be prioritized by all stakeholders involved in curbing trauma-related mortality and building research capacity in LMICs. In this commentary, previous successful efforts to establish and maintain robust registries in LMICs through local and international partnerships are highlighted. The lessons and challenges chronicled in establishing such registries can inform future efforts to implement a nationally standardized trauma registry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zerubabbel K. Asfaw
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine, New York City, NY, USA
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15
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Owolabi EO, Nyamathe S, Joseph C, Khuabi LAJN, English RG, Vlok A, Erasmus E, Geduld HI, Lategan HJ, Chu KM. Mapping access to care and identification of barriers for traumatic brain injury in a South African township. J Eval Clin Pract 2023; 29:380-391. [PMID: 36415056 DOI: 10.1111/jep.13793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE South Africa has a high traumatic injury burden resulting in a significant number of persons suffering from traumatic brain injury (TBI). TBI is a time-sensitive condition requiring a responsive and organized health system to minimize morbidity and mortality. This study outlined the barriers to accessing TBI care in a South African township. METHODS This was a multimethod study. A facility survey was carried out on health facilities offering trauma care in Khayelitsha township, Cape Town, South Africa. Perceived barriers to accessing TBI care were explored using qualitative interviews and focus group discussions. The four-delay framework that describes delays in four phases was used: seeking, reaching, receiving, and remaining in care. We purposively recruited individuals with a history of TBI (n = 6) and 15 healthcare professionals working with persons with TBI (seven individuals representing each of the five facilities, the heads of neurosurgery and emergency medical services and eight additional healthcare providers who participated in the focus group discussions). Quantitative data were analysed descriptively while qualitative data were analysed thematically, following inductive and deductive approaches. FINDINGS Five healthcare facilities (three community health centres, one district hospital and one tertiary hospital) were surveyed. We conducted 13 individual interviews (six with persons with TBI history, seven with healthcare providers from each of the five facilities, neurosurgery department and emergency medical service heads and two focus group discussions involving eight additional healthcare providers. Participants mentioned that alcohol abuse and high neighbourhood crime could lead to delays in seeking and reaching care. The most significant barriers reported were related to receiving definitive care, mostly due to a lack of diagnostic imaging at community health centres and the district hospital, delays in interfacility transfers due to ambulance delays and human and infrastructural limitations. A barrier to remaining in care was the lack of clear communication between persons with TBI and health facilities regarding follow-up care. CONCLUSION Our study revealed that various individual-level, community and health system factors impacted TBI care. Efforts to improve TBI care and reduce injury-related morbidity and mortality must put in place more community-level security measures, institute alcohol regulatory policies, improve access to diagnostics and invest in hospital infrastructures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eyitayo O Owolabi
- Department of Global Health, Centre for Global Surgery, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.,Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Samukelisiwe Nyamathe
- Department of Global Health, Centre for Global Surgery, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Conran Joseph
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Division of Occupational therapy, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lee-Ann Jacobs-Nzuzi Khuabi
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Division of Occupational therapy, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Rene G English
- Department of Global Health, Division of Health Systems and Public Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Adriaan Vlok
- Division of Neurosurgery, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Elaine Erasmus
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Heike I Geduld
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Hendrick J Lategan
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kathryn M Chu
- Department of Global Health, Centre for Global Surgery, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Surgery, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
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